Schneider Electric announced Jeff Drees will assume the role of United States president, effective June 1. In this role, Drees will be accountable for driving the growth and profitability within Schneider Electric's Power, Buildings and Energy businesses within the U.S., as well as coordinating the company's energy efficiency and solutions initiatives across all businesses.
"Having worked closely with Jeff over the last few years, I have seen firsthand his ability to drive growth in our business and motivate and inspire his team," said Chris Curtis, President and CEO of Schneider Electric in North America. "We are uniquely positioned to help solve our energy dilemma and Jeff has the passion and leadership needed to lead these efforts in our company and with our customers."
Drees previously served as president of the Buildings business of Schneider Electric in the Americas, where he was responsible for overseeing the business' performance in the U.S., Canada, and Central and South America. Drees joined the company in 2001 and has served in various roles, leading the partner division and Energy Solutions sales, and working with the corporate global office in partner recruitment and acquisition analysis.
Prior to joining Schneider Electric, Drees held management and engineering positions at Caterpillar Inc. and Honeywell Inc. and served as a technician for the U.S. Air Force. He earned an associate's degree in electrical and mechanical engineering from the Air Force and a Bachelor of Science in electronics engineering/management from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill. He also has a master's degree in business administration from Aurora University in Aurora, Ill.
Drees replaces Amy Huntington, who after 22 years with Schneider Electric has decided to leave the company to devote more time to her personal and charitable interests.
about Schneider Electric
As a global specialist in energy management with operations in more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric offers integrated solutions across multiple market segments, including leadership positions in energy and infrastructure, industrial processes, building automation, and data centers/networks, as well as a broad presence in residential applications. Focused on making energy safe, reliable, and efficient, the company's 100,000+ employees achieved sales of more than $22 billion in 2009, through an active commitment to help individuals and organizations "Make the most of their energy."
